Ex-Attorney Opts Out of Class Action, Defeats Honda in Small Claims Court

By Stephanie Rabiner, Esq. on
February 3, 2012 5:05 AM

Thinking about ditching your legal career? A little bored with what you've been working on? Perhaps it's time to renew your passion for the law.

Take Heather Peters, for example. She recently opted out of a proposed Honda hybrid class action settlement and took the car manufacturer to small claims court. A California judge awarded her $9,867 -- a windfall in comparison to the $200 and nontransferable new car credit being offered by Honda.

Peters hasn't practiced law in 10 years, but now she's thinking about reactivating her license.

It was her failed run for State Assembly in California that propelled her to file this case, explains JD Journal. She realized just how difficult it is for people without a legal background. She knew she could file a small claims suit, but most people just go along with class action settlements.

You don't need to run for office to reinvigorate your passion for the law, but it's not a bad idea. Heather Peters managed to propel her run into a career in public service. She worked as a Regional Political Director during Governor Schwarzenegger's re-election campaign, and eventually earned a spot on 2 different state boards.

Peters is pretty excited about them, too. Upon learning of the court's judgment, she told the Los Angeles Times that she'd like to represent other hybrid owners in litigation against Honda.

After 10 years, she's located her love of the law and just what it can do. What would make you recommit to your career? Do you need an outside perspective, as did Heather Peters? A passion case? Or maybe just a new way to use your skills? Whatever it is, find it and do it.